Syllabus

Cambridge International AS Level General Paper For Centres in Mauritius Syllabus code 8009 For examination in November 2012

Contents

Cambridge International AS Level General Paper For Centres in Mauritius Syllabus code 8009
1. Introduction ..................................................................................... 2
1.1 Why choose Cambridge? 1.2 Why choose Cambridge International AS Level General Paper? 1.3 How can I find out more?

2. Assessment at a glance .................................................................. 4 3. Syllabus aims and objectives ........................................................... 6

3.1 Aims 3.2 Assessment objectives

4. Curriculum content .......................................................................... 7

4.1 Topic areas for Paper 1 4.2 Level descriptors for essay marking (Paper 1) 4.3 Answer requirements for Paper 2

5. Additional information.................................................................... 11
5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 5.5 Guided learning hours Recommended prior learning Progression Component codes Grading and reporting

Cambridge International AS Level General Paper 8009. For Centres in Mauritius. Examination in November 2012. UCLES 2009

1. Introduction

1.1 Why choose Cambridge?

University of Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) is the worlds largest provider of international qualifications. Around 1.5 million students from 150 countries enter Cambridge examinations every year. What makes educators around the world choose Cambridge?

Recognition
A Cambridge International A or AS Level is recognised around the world by schools, universities and employers. The qualifications are accepted as proof of academic ability for entry to universities worldwide, though some courses do require specific subjects. Cambridge International A Levels typically take two years to complete and offer a flexible course of study that gives students the freedom to select subjects that are right for them. Cambridge International AS Levels often represent the first half of an A Level course but may also be taken as a freestanding qualification. They are accepted in all UK universities and carry half the weighting of an A Level. University course credit and advanced standing is often available for Cambridge International A/AS Levels in countries such as the USA and Canada. Learn more at www.cie.org.uk/recognition.

Support
CIE provides a world-class support service for teachers and exams officers. We offer a wide range of teacher materials to Centres, plus teacher training (online and face-to-face) and student support materials. Exams officers can trust in reliable, efficient administration of exams entry and excellent, personal support from CIE Customer Services. Learn more at www.cie.org.uk/teachers.

Excellence in education
Cambridge qualifications develop successful students. They not only build understanding and knowledge required for progression, but also learning and thinking skills that help students become independent learners and equip them for life.

Not-for-profit, part of the University of Cambridge

CIE is part of Cambridge Assessment, a not-for-profit organisation and part of the University of Cambridge. The needs of teachers and learners are at the core of what we do. CIE invests constantly in improving its qualifications and services. We draw upon education research in developing our qualifications.

Cambridge International AS Level General Paper 8009. For Centres in Mauritius. Examination in November 2012.

1. Introduction

1.2 Why choose Cambridge International AS Level General Paper?

Cambridge International AS Level General Paper is accepted by universities and employers as proof of understanding and ability to communicate in English. The AS Level General Paper syllabus is multidisciplinary, with subject matter drawn from across the curriculum. In broad terms, the syllabus encourages candidates to: Be more aware of the breadth and complexity of the contemporary world. Develop thinking and reasoning skills, and maturity of thought. Achieve an understanding of (and ability in) the English language which enables them to express arguments, ideas and opinions in a reflective and academic manner.

Although an awareness of the wider implications of particular issues will improve the quality of candidates learning, the AS Level General Paper is not a test of general knowledge.

1.3 How can I find out more?

If you are already a Cambridge Centre
You can make entries for this qualification through your usual channels, e.g. CIE Direct. If you have any queries, please contact us at international@cie.org.uk.

If you are not a Cambridge Centre

You can find out how your organisation can become a Cambridge Centre. Email us at international@cie.org.uk. Learn more about the benefits of becoming a Cambridge Centre at www.cie.org.uk.

Cambridge International AS Level General Paper 8009. For Centres in Mauritius. Examination in November 2012.

2. Assessment at a glance

Cambridge International AS Level General Paper For Centres in Mauritius Syllabus code 8009
Candidates are tested on their understanding and use of English, and the extent to which they are able to think maturely as appropriate for this level. They are not primarily tested on their general knowledge. All candidates for the Higher School Certificate must attain a satisfactory standard in this syllabus, a pass in which is recorded as a pass in a subsidiary subject. Paper 1 This paper has twelve questions. Candidates answer one question. Candidates write an essay of between 500 and 800 words on one of the following topics: Historical, social, economic, political and philosophical topics. Science, including its history, philosophy, general principles and applications. Geographical and mathematical topics. Literature and language, arts and crafts. 1 hour 30 minutes

See section 4.1 for possible topic areas. Questions are general, requiring discussion and evaluation. Up to 30 marks are awarded for content and up to 20 marks for English. Total marks: 50 Weighting: 50% Paper 2 The paper has two sections: Data Response and Comprehension. Candidates answer all questions, writing in spaces on the question paper. Both sections will be based on material on an INSERT accompanying the question paper. Each section will combine a few multiple-choice questions with two higher-scoring questions requiring answers in continuous prose. The examination time takes into account the need for candidates to study the questions and think before starting to write. Total marks: 50 Weighting: 50% 2 hours

Cambridge International AS Level General Paper 8009. For Centres in Mauritius. Examination in November 2012.

2. Assessment at a glance

Availability
This syllabus is examined in the October/November examination session. This syllabus is available in Mauritius only. This syllabus is available to private candidates. Centres in the UK that receive government funding are advised to consult the CIE website www.cie.org.uk for the latest information before beginning to teach this syllabus.

Combining this with other syllabuses

Candidates can combine this syllabus in an examination session with any other CIE syllabus, except: syllabuses with the same title at the same level.

Cambridge International AS Level General Paper 8009. For Centres in Mauritius. Examination in November 2012.

3. Syllabus aims and objectives

3.1 Aims
The aims of the AS Level General Paper are to: Promote the skills of rational thought, persuasion, analysis, interpretation and evaluation. Encourage the broad exploration and appraisal of social, cultural, economic, environmental, political, philosophical, scientific and technological issues. Promote maturity of thought and clarity of expression. Promote understanding and appreciation of individual, societal and cultural diversity. Encourage independent, critical reading.

3.2 Assessment objectives

In the AS Level General Paper syllabus, assessment objectives relate to the skills of: knowledge understanding analysis application communication evaluation.

In the assessment, candidates should therefore be able to demonstrate: Knowledge and understanding in relation to the topic areas identified in the syllabus. Knowledge of methods and techniques appropriate to a specific task. The ability to identify, select and interpret, through reasoned consideration, material (including knowledge) appropriate to a specific task. The ability to apply knowledge, understanding and analysis in relation to a specific task (e.g. in drawing inferences, providing explanations, constructing and developing arguments, understanding the implications of a suggested course of action or conclusion, etc.) The ability to exercise evaluation and discrimination in assessing evidence, ideas and opinions in order to formulate a supported conclusion. The ability to communicate information, ideas and opinions in a clear, concise, logical and appropriate manner.

Cambridge International AS Level General Paper 8009. For Centres in Mauritius. Examination in November 2012.

4. Curriculum content

4.1 Topic areas for Paper 1

Topic areas are cross-curricular and comprehensive, and some may appear in more than one section. Teachers do not need to cover all the topic areas when teaching the course, as candidates should be able to draw upon knowledge and understanding gained when studying other subjects. The areas for consideration listed here are suggestions only. They are intended to help teachers devise and plan their own broad course.

Section 1: Historical, social, economic, political and philosophical topics

Possible areas for consideration might include: The role of history and war; terrorism. The role of the individual in society the family, marriage, peer pressure, class. Cultural changes youth and drug culture. Education and welfare. Sport, leisure, international competition. Wealth; changes in work practice. The importance and impact of tourism on a country implications for the economy, employment, public transport, environmental concerns. The provision and politics of aid. The State and its institutions. Development of State, democracy, nationalism. Minority groups, pressure groups. Freedom of speech, action, thought. Judiciary. Matters of conscience, faith, tolerance, equality, opportunity. Corruption.

Section 2: Science, including its history, philosophy, general principles and applications; environmental issues; mathematical topics
Possible areas for consideration might include: Medical dilemmas and issues of research and ethics; concept of progress in science. Drug manufacture and provision. Diet, health education. Old and new industries. Spin-offs from space industry; weaponry.

Cambridge International AS Level General Paper 8009. For Centres in Mauritius. Examination in November 2012.

4. Curriculum content

Information and communications technology; the Internet. Environmental concerns; renewable energy resources; climate change. Migration; population dynamics. Feeding the global population; farming techniques for the twenty-first century. Public transport and travel. The uses and applications of mathematics in everyday life.

Section 3: Literature and language, arts and crafts

Possible areas for consideration might include: Literature, biography, diary, science fiction. Language heritage, tradition, dialect. The global media tv, radio, satellite; influence and controls; effects on lifestyle, culture and habits; cultural dilution and diversification; advertising; role models. Censorship; privacy; the right to know; freedom of the press, etc. uses and abuses. Traditional arts and crafts; creativity; national heritage/preservation; effects of tourism. Architecture; painting; fashion; photography; sculpture; music; heritage.

NB Questions are not set on every topic in any single examination.

Cambridge International AS Level General Paper 8009. For Centres in Mauritius. Examination in November 2012.

4. Curriculum content

4.2 Level descriptors for essay marking (Paper 1)

Use of English
Level 4 Paragraphs are used consistently and effectively and generally enhance the understanding of the text. Appropriate tone and fluency throughout. Few errors. Evidence of extensive vocabulary. Sound sentence structure and clear linkage. Paragraphs are well arranged. Appropriate tone and fluency, some lapses possible. Occasionally errors detract from a clear understanding of the text. Vocabulary is wide ranging. Sentence structure possibly disjointed or lacking smooth linkage. Paragraphs may be disorganised. Fluency may break down and tone could be variable. Expression is mainly good enough for meaning to be clear, but mechanical errors present. Limited vocabulary. Sentence structure and linkage may be haphazard. Lack of paragraphs possible. Extensive mechanical errors and poor vocabulary may make understanding difficult. Breakdown in sentence structure likely. High frequency of all types of error. Some sections may ramble and not make sense.

Level 3

Level 2

Level 1

Cambridge International AS Level General Paper 8009. For Centres in Mauritius. Examination in November 2012.

Content
Level 5 A range of material which is relevant, interesting and thoughtfully presented. Clear evidence of perceptive/original thought and/or opinion. Coherent arguments demonstrating balance, sensitivity and awareness. Very well-illustrated. Wide ranging discussions are well structured. A range of relevant material which shows some perception/originality. A clear argument is offered which may not be fully developed. An attempt at balance. Soundly illustrated. Structure basically sound. A range of material is presented which may include some irrelevance or digression. Solid information offered, perhaps lacking perception/originality. An attempt to construct an argument. Some illustrations. The views expressed and the conclusion may be simplistic or lack balance. A range of material which may lack depth or relevance. No perception/originality of thought. A lack of coherent understanding. Few relevant illustrations. An attempt to construct an argument and structure the essay may be evident. An inadequate range of material which lacks perception/originality, illustration and relevance. No obvious understanding. Poor structure, digression, and evidence of confusion.

Level 4

Level 3

Level 2

Level 1

4.3 Answer requirements for Paper 2

Questions in Section 1 (Data Response) and Section 2 (Comprehension) are all based on material printed in the INSERT. Section 1 will contain a short series of multiple-choice questions on the meaning/relevance/significance/ presentation of specific material, followed by two higher-scoring questions involving analysis of an aspect of the material (e.g. giving a case for or against a main proposal or viewpoint). Section 2 will contain a short series of multiple-choice questions based on close reading of the material and testing understanding/interpretation, followed by two higher-scoring questions involving summary and/or evaluation of the material or part of it, and analysis of an aspect of the text and/or reactions to issues raised.

Cambridge International AS Level General Paper 8009. For Centres in Mauritius. Examination in November 2012.

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5. Additional information

5.1 Guided learning hours

Advanced Subsidiary Level (AS Level) syllabuses are designed on the assumption that candidates have about 180 guided learning hours per subject over the duration of the course. (Guided learning hours include direct teaching and any other supervised or directed study time. They do not include private study by the candidate.) However, this figure is for guidance only, and the number of hours required may vary according to local curricular practice and the candidates prior experience of the subject.

5.2 Recommended prior learning

We recommend that candidates who are beginning this course should have previously completed a broad course of study at O Level or IGCSE or the equivalent.

5.3 Progression
Cambridge International AS Level General Paper will help to provide a suitable foundation for study in higher education. Depending on local university entrance requirements, it may permit or assist progression directly to university courses in many subjects, especially in the arts/humanities and the social sciences. It is also suitable for candidates intending to pursue careers or planning further study or as part of a course of general education.

5.4 Component codes

Because of local variations, in some cases component codes will be different in instructions about making entries for examinations and timetables from those printed in this syllabus, but the component names will be unchanged to make identification straightforward.

Cambridge International AS Level General Paper 8009. For Centres in Mauritius. Examination in November 2012.

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5. Additional information

5.5 Grading and reporting

AS Level results are shown by one of the grades a, b, c, d or e indicating the standard achieved, Grade a being the highest and Grade e the lowest. Ungraded indicates that the candidate has failed to reach the standard required for a pass at AS Level. Ungraded will be reported on the statement of results but not on the certificate. For languages other than English, CIE will also report separate speaking endorsement grades (Distinction, Merit and Pass) for candidates who satisfy the conditions stated in the syllabus. The content and difficulty of an AS Level examination is equivalent to the first half of a corresponding A Level.

Cambridge International AS Level General Paper 8009. For Centres in Mauritius. Examination in November 2012.

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University of Cambridge International Examinations 1 Hills Road, Cambridge, CB1 2EU, United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0)1223 553554 Fax: +44 (0)1223 553558 Email: international@cie.org.uk Website: www.cie.org.uk University of Cambridge International Examinations 2009